Ducati launches DesertX Discovery

A DesertX all set for any adventure is the brief for the new Discovery model from Ducati. Think cross-continent trekking on this new adventure bike.

It utilises DesertX mechanicals and features a 21-inch front wheel, stronger hand guards and engine guard with protection for the water pump. There’s also a grille to shield the radiator from rock damage and a reinforced sump guard to protect the bike on rocky sections. The heated grips and a larger windshield enhance comfort in cold conditions. A standard-fit centre stand makes access to luggage and maintenance operations easier. So in essence this is a DesertX made for long distance travel across any terrain.

In that regard, on-road ability is also a prime consideration. It has a steel trellis frame and long travel adjustable KYB suspension that makes riding easy and intuitive over almost any terrain. Three tyre choices are available, depending on whether you think road or off-road, or both take precedence. It comes with Pirelli Scorpion Rally STR tyres. A turn-by-turn navigation system acts via the Ducati Link App, with directions relayed directly to the dashboard. A pair of 76-litre aluminium luggage holders is a cost option.

Powering the dual-purpose machine is Ducati’s 937cc liquid-cooled Testastretta 11° desmo V-twin producing 82kW at 9250rpm and peak torque of 92Nm at 6500rpm. There are three ride modes for road use and two for off-road riding.

A 21L tank keeps fuel stops to a minimum. Brembo M50 calipers cover braking duties, clamping onto 320mm discs up front.

The DesertX family also includes the Rally model, dedicated to the off-road rally riders, honed through competition. It features the best racing-derived components available.

The Ducati DesertX Discovery is available in a white and red and comes with two-year, unlimited kilometre warranty. A four-year factory guarantee is a cost option.

In New Zealand the standard DesertX costs $29,495 whereas the Discovery variant goes for $32,172.